The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
